Venous disease in the lower extremities can lead to several common conditions such as varicose veins, spider veins, and chronic venous insufficiency. These conditions begin with venous reflux, which occurs when valves in veins no longer work properly.

Valves typically allow blood to flow one direction through the ankles and legs, but reflux causes blood to flow backwards. This makes it more difficult for veins to transport blood back to the heart. Damaged or weakened valves may lead to pooling blood and increased pressure. Spider veins, varicose veins, edema, skin changes, and venous ulceration are all signs of venous insufficiency and progression of venous disease.

Swelling, discoloration and wounds are sometimes sufficient to predict underlying venous insufficiency; however, further testing may be needed to confirm a diagnosis. A physical examination is a critical step towards treatment and a recovery plan.

Venous insufficiency affects up to 40 percent of people in the United States, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery. The best course of treatment for venous conditions varies from person to person.

Vein surgeons must consider several factors such as causes, symptoms and age, before deciding on the best treatment course.

Ultrasound waves are high frequency sound waves, inaudible to the human ear, that can render a visible image of structures due to their differences in tissue density. This technology allows doctors to determine blood flow based on the reflection of waves back from things in motion, such as red blood cells.

The use of ultrasound is ideal for the non-invasive investigation of venous blood vessels that are not visible to the naked eye. These examinations check for valvular incompetence (the underlying condition that causes varicose veins). The process is used to both identify the veins that have faulty valves and to map the anatomy of the veins, creating a road map for future procedures.

Ultrasound technology also helps medical professionals determine blood flow through the vessels and estimate the diameter of a blood vessel, as well as the amount of obstruction.

Diagnosis is necessary to make an accurate assessment of the cause and extent of unhealthy veins, as well as to formulate the best plan of treatment. This must be done for any individual being treated.